Diversity and Innovation: Progress and Exploration of Domestic Art Movies in 2016

Abstract

One defining feature of domestic movies in 2016 is the outstanding performance made by art movies. In general, these art movies improved the overall quality of Chinese movies and the aesthetic appreciation of Chinese viewers. While highlighting the values of art and thought amid the commercial or entertainment movies, the art movies aroused public concern for domestic movies. Domestic art movies in 2016 are characterized by a close link between their art form and avant–garde style and their realist approach, affinity to the people and thought–provoking insight. Such characteristics enabled them to make new contributions to the development of realism. Some exhibited the producers’ relentless exploration and pursuit of innovation, vividly demonstrating the diversity of contemporary art movies. For example, some delivered an impressive modern interpretation of traditional Chinese aesthetic philosophy–"the extraordinary lies in the ordinary;"some had a novel camera expression and unique space–time composition; some established an in–depth connection between laughter and critical thinking by combining comic and tragic elements; some rendered innovative presentations by integrating modern style with ethnic culture; and some adopted ideographic means to enhance the significance of art movies. At present, however, Chinese art movies still lack a grand spiritual vision, with their themes to be further enriched and their concepts and expressions to be better integrated. Domestic art movies need to be endowed with more profound significance.

Keywords

• art movie
• art form;
• realist approach
• exploration and innovation
• spiritual vision